Suva, Fiji – Former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and former Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho have been granted bail after appearing in the Suva Magistrates Court today, February 19, 2026, on charges of inciting mutiny. The pair were escorted from police custody and appeared before Resident Magistrate Yogesh Prasad following an overnight stay at Totogo Police Station. The case centers around allegations that Bainimarama and Qiliho attempted to undermine the authority of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) in 2023.
The prosecution, led by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions John Rabuku, indicated its readiness to fast-track the proceedings, describing the matter as “straightforward.” However, Magistrate Prasad stated that scheduling a trial date would be premature until full disclosures are served to the defense. Both Bainimarama and Qiliho elected to have their case heard in the Magistrates Court, foregoing the option of a trial in the High Court.
The charges stem from alleged actions taken between January and July 2023. Prosecutors allege that Bainimarama sent Viber messages to Brigadier-General Manoa Gadai, attempting to incite him to seize command of the RFMF and remove the authority of Commander Major General Jone Kalouniwai. Bainimarama and Qiliho are accused of jointly attempting to persuade senior RFMF officers – Lieutenant Colonel Atunaisa Vakatale, Colonel Aseri Rokoura, and Colonel Viliame Draunibaka – to unlawfully arrest and remove the commander, as reported by Fiji Sun.
Bail conditions imposed by Magistrate Prasad include a stop departure order, preventing the two men from leaving the country. They are also prohibited from re-offending and interfering with prosecution witnesses, either directly or through intermediaries. Each has been released on a $5,000 non-cash bail bond, and required to provide two sureties. FBC News confirmed these bail conditions.
Details of the Allegations
According to court documents, the state alleges that between January 1st and July 31st, 2023, Bainimarama, while in Suva, used Viber to communicate with Brigadier General Manoa Driuvakamaka Gadai, attempting to instigate a takeover of command and challenge the authority of RFMF Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai. It is alleged that during the same period, Bainimarama and Qiliho engaged in conversations with Lt Colonel Atunaisa Vakatale, Colonel Aseri Rokoura, Colonel Viliame Draunibaka, and other senior RFMF officers, aiming to incite them to unlawfully arrest and supplant the commander. Prosecutors revealed that during police interviews, neither Bainimarama nor Qiliho offered any admissions regarding the allegations, according to Maitv Fiji.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
The courtroom was filled with family members, supporters, and members of the media during the proceedings. Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Rabuku requested time to finalize and serve full disclosures to the defense. The matter has been adjourned to March 5th for plea. The prosecution anticipates completing disclosures within 14 days.
The charges against Bainimarama and Qiliho represent a significant development in Fijian politics, given their prominent roles in the country’s recent history. Bainimarama served as Prime Minister for a considerable period, and Qiliho held the position of Police Commissioner. The outcome of this case will likely have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of Fiji.
As the case progresses to the plea stage on March 5th, further details regarding the evidence and potential witnesses are expected to emerge. The public will be closely watching the proceedings as they unfold, and the legal team will be preparing their defense strategy in the coming weeks.
Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
